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The GRE writing section has two types of essay topics: analyzing a problem and analyzing an argument. Test takers must carefully read instructions and demonstrate critical thinking and analytical writing skills. The writing section will not change significantly with the revised test.
There are two types of essay topics in the Graduate Record Examination (GRE): one that asks the examiner to review a problem topic and one that asks the examiner to review an argument topic. The topic of analyzing a problem provides a central problem and asks the test taker to think critically about it and then express their thoughts. The Analyze an Argument section requires the writer to critique the logic of an argument. Anyone taking the GRE will need to complete both scheduled recording tasks separately. This section of the GRE will not change significantly when the revised test becomes standard on August 1, 2011.
One type of the two GRE writing topics asks the writer to analyze and evaluate an argument. A short paragraph will present an argument for an interpretation of events that includes a claim and supporting evidence. The test taker should consider the structure and reasoning in this paragraph, as well as the claim made and the proof offered.
When analyzing an argument, the writer is not being asked to agree or disagree with the author of the paragraph or to express his opinion about the events presented. The test taker must assess the logic of the argument itself and show critical thinking and analytical reading skills. It is important to carefully read the instructions for the GRE essay topics, as there are several possibilities. Not answering the question asked may result in a very low score.
Analyzing a question is another possible GRE writing topic. In this section, the writer will be asked to consider an issue of general interest and clearly express his opinion on it. The key is for the writer to build a compelling case in support of their own position. Considering the issue from multiple perspectives before writing is an effective strategy.
There is no one correct answer to the recording task of analyzing a problem. The score is based on how clearly and effectively the writer is able to develop an argument in support of their position. A high-scoring essay in this section will address the presented topic directly.
The GRE writing topics measure a test taker’s critical thinking and analytical writing skills. In general, scoring is based on the ability to clearly communicate complex ideas, provide relevant supporting reasons and examples, and sustain a coherent and focused discussion. Critically examining the claims and evidence and demonstrating a command of standard written English will improve test takers’ scores in this section.
Test takers will have 30 minutes per writing assignment in the GRE Writing Topics section. Those using the GRE on a computer will use a word processor developed by the Educational Testing Service. This word processor can insert and delete text and has cut and paste and undo functions. There is no spelling or grammar checker available. Those taking the paper test will write the essays by hand.
The GRE is changing after August 1, 2011. New question types will be added to the Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections. The writing section of the exam will not change significantly, but there will only be one topic per assignment instead of a choice of topics.
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